Lakers GM Says He Expects Kobe Bryant To Retire In 2016

Los Angeles Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak says that he expects Kobe Bryant’s current contract to be his last.

Kobe Bryant has never set a date for his retirement, but many believe that the five-time NBA champion will hang ’em up after his current contract ends in 2016.

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Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak spoke about the matter to David Aldridge of NBA.com and echoed that sentiment.

"“All indications are, to me, from him, that this (two-year contract) is going to be it,” Kupchak said. “If somebody’s thinking of buying a ticket three years from now to see Kobe play, I would not do that. Don’t wait. Do it this year.”"

It will be a sad day for every true NBA fan when Bryant retires. He’s one of the 10 greatest players in NBA history and someone that always gives his all when out there.

In a recent interview with Mark Medina of InsideSoCal.com, Kobe also hinted at a 2016 retirement, but again, would not commit to anything.

"“Maybe. Maybe not. I don’t want to be coy about it,” Bryant said following the Lakers’ 111-95 loss on Wednesday to the Washington Wizards at Verizon Center. “I don’t know what to tell you. Right now I’d say no. But it doesn’t matter. Would that change a year from now or something like that?”"

2016 is the right time for Bryant to go. He will be 38 then and it’s hard to imagine he would still be able to perform at a high level at that point.

Bryant is averaging 25.2 points, 4.8 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game this year.

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